Jean Sibelius recalling his Norfolk stay in 1914:

“The natural surroundings had not been disturbed, but were reverently protected from the advance of civilization; it was as romantic and mysterious as it had been two hundred years earlier. There was an atmosphere of poetry over the large, sleeping woods that was unique.”

Facilities

The Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate is the summer home of the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival–Yale Summer School of Music. Facilities on the 70-acre estate include: 

  • An acoustically superb performance hall, the Music Shed
  • Individual practice spaces
  • Private rehearsal studios for each ensemble
  • Lecture hall
  • Music library
  • Professional recording facilities
  • Festival artist, fellows, and staff residences
  • Dining hall
  • Laundry facility
  • Art gallery (during the New Music Workshop only)
  • Wireless internet access
  • Many green spaces, soccer and baseball fields where Festival artists, fellows, and staff often enjoy impromptu games of soccer, softball, or ultimate frisbee

 

Housing and Meals

Fellows are housed on the Festival’s grounds within walking distance of all activities. 

The Festival provides excellent and diverse meals. Special dietary needs will be accommodated.

 

Festival Artist Performances + Emerging Artist Series

The Norfolk Chamber Music Festival concerts on Friday and Saturday evenings feature Festival artists and fellows. Fellows also have ample opportunity to perform on the Emerging Artist Series, which offers concerts multiple times per week throughout the summer. All fellows receive free admission to all performances, and recordings are available. 

 

The Town of Norfolk

With a summer population of a little more than 2,000, Norfolk has all the amenities and charm of a classic, small New England village. The Festival grounds on the Ellen Battell Stoeckel Estate are located directly across the street from the center of this picturesque town. Learn more about the area in the Plan Your Visit section.

 

Daily Schedule

A typical day at the Norfolk Chamber Music Festival–Yale Summer School of Music:

8–8:45 a.m.  Breakfast

9–10:15 a.m.  Rehearsal/Practice

10:30–11:45 a.m.  Rehearsal/Practice

12–12:45 p.m.  Lunch

1:15–2:30 p.m.  Coaching/Rehearsal

2:45–4 p.m.  Coaching/Rehearsal

4–5:15 p.m.  Coaching/Rehearsal

6–6:45 p.m.  Dinner

Evening: free time, sports, masterclass, Emerging Artist Series concert, or Festival Artist Series concert